Alexandre Lacazette has spoken of his “pride” in being Arsenal captain, particularly after one moment to savour involving young teammate Bukayo Saka.
Mikel Arteta handed the French striker the armband for the remainder of the season after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang left the club in early February.
Since then, Lacazette has enjoyed fresh impetus in his Arsenal career as the spearhead of an otherwise youthful attack currently fighting for a top-four finish.
“I’m proud,” he told Canal Plus on being captain. “It’s perhaps one of the seasons where I have the most responsibility within the team.
“I think I’m mature enough now for it. I maintain a good relationship between the squad and the staff. I try to bring the most confidence possible to my partners.
“Last year, I had said to Bukayo to play how he wants, that if we lost, I would take responsibility and that he shouldn’t worry. Then, we played a great game and he scored. He said to me, ‘When you told me that, it really helped me’. So yeah, it’s nice.”
Out of contract in the summer, Lacazette discussed how he felt the respect of the dressing room after being elevated to the status of captain.
“I really feel it,” he added. “I also feel that they listen.
“When I give instructions, when I speak, I feel that they’re all attentive. But no, to be honest, it’s great. It’s a different status that I have now.”
